Russia

Power in Russia’s authoritarian political system is concentrated in the hands of President Vladimir Putin. With loyalist security forces, a subservient judiciary, a controlled media environment, and a legislature consisting of a ruling party and pliable opposition factions, the Kremlin is able to manipulate elections and suppress genuine dissent. Rampant corruption facilitates shifting links among bureaucrats and organized crime groups.

Freedom in the World — Russia Country Report

Russia is rated Not Free in Freedom in the World 2020, Freedom House's annual study of political rights and civil liberties worldwide.